Simple. Natural. Pure. Mineral Makeup

Do you know what is in your mineral makeup? Have you ever taken the time to read the labels and find out exactly what each ingredient is for? A truly pure mineral makeup should use only pure minerals. You should expect to see these ingredients in your mineral makeup: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Zinc Oxide. You may also see Kaolin Clay and Ultramarine Blue in pure mineral makeup.

You should be wary of any mineral makeup containing any of these ingredients: Bismuth Oxychloride, Carmine, Cornstarch, Talc, Dyes, Lakes, Fragrances, Parabens, or any other preservatives. Mineral makeup does not require any preservatives in it. If your mineral makeup contains any form of preservatives, chances are there are minimal minerals in it.

I thought it might be beneficial for everyone to see what each ingredient in Mineral Makeup is used for, so I have compiled a list of ingredients that should be in the makeup and a list of ingredients to watch out for.

Zinc Oxide is a fluffy fine powder that offers whitening power, coverage and adhesion. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and healing properties in problem skin such as rosacea and acne. It has the ability to stay on even while swimming and sweating. It also offers protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Titanium Dioxide is a powder used to whiten many things. It has good adhesion and is known for it’s waterproof and SPF properties while providing a matte look.

Mica has some transparent properties that allows the makeup to go on smoothly. It is the name given to a group of naturally occurring Earth’s minerals, which are mined from around the world, purified, and crushed into fine powders. A transparent mineral that is mined from the earth. It can be opalescent, sparkling or completely matte. It is often treated with iron oxides to make brilliant colors and used in mineral powders for its’ “slip” and light reflecting qualities.

Iron Oxides give the makeup its pigment/color.

Ultramarine Blue is required in some cool shades of makeup since there is no blue oxide. Products containing Ultramarine Blue are not permitted for use on the lips.

Serecite is used extensively in cosmetics, especially in foundations as a base ingredient. It feels silky to the touch and reflects light, reducing the appearance of pores and wrinkles. It is not as shimmery as other options, such as bismuth oxychloride. Serecite is similar to noncoated Mica and is commonly listed as Mica to follow labeling requirements.

Kaolin Clay is a pure, white, natural clay that offers adhesion to cosmetic products. This is a very gentle product and can be used on the most sensitive skin. It draws impurities from the skin without removing any natural oils. It provides great coverage and has the ability to absorb fats from the skin, refine pores and clear up breakouts.

Ingredients To Avoid in Mineral Makeup: (These ingredients are not used in Mere’ Minerals)

Bismuth Oxychloride is a cheap and inexpensive filler. It is the by-product of lead and copper refining. It is a very heavy element and chemically resembles arsenic. It provides a shine to your makeup and provides adhesion. It can cause clogged pores and irritated skin resulting in itching.Parabens are preservatives added to personal care products to extend the shelf life. May alter hormone levels, possibly increasing risks for certain types of cancer, impaired fertility, or alteration of the development of a fetus or young child. Parabens can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in some individuals.

Cornstarch – If your makeup product has cornstarch in it then it DOES have an expiration date. Cornstarch is a vegetable starch and has a shelf life. It does not offer good adhesion and does not protect you from UV rays.

Have you wondered what the hype about mineral makeup is all about? Are all your friends wearing this new fad and looking wonderful? Do you want to know more about it? Is it really better for your skin than regular liquid foundation?

Minerals have been used for cosmetic purposes for thousands of years, dating as far back as the early Egyptians. Egyptians knew the benefits of using natural products on their bodies. Loose mineral makeup is the most natural makeup available. In order for manufacturers to create liquid foundations, they have to add ingredients such as water, oil, waxes, petrochemicals, synthetic humectants, gums and fillers to the mineral colorants. They also add dyes and preservatives. Mineral makeup does not require preservatives and offers superior coverage without all the fillers.

Mineral makeup also provides a natural sunscreen. Titanium Dioxide is one of the main ingredients in mineral makeup and effectively blocks UVA and UVB rays, without using a chemical sunscreen.

Mineral makeup is also wonderful for those with sensitive skin or those prone to breakouts. Since mineral makeup is comprised of natural minerals, the likelihood of a reaction is rare. Our ingredients are free of the irritating ingredients found in most cosmetics: talc, dye and perfume.

Mineral makeup is extremely long-wearing. It stays in place while swimming and exercising. Not only is mineral makeup long-wearing, it is also effortless to apply.

There are many brands of mineral makeup available on the market. Not all products that carry the name mineral makeup are pure. Some have added synthetic ingredients and preservatives that are not necessary for mineral makeup. At Mere’ Minerals, we exclude the following ingredients from our Mineral line: dyes, lakes, carmine, talc, bismuth oxychloride, petroleum products, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate, parabens, UREA and others.